Secrets on how to ride a BIG BMW R 1200 GS as a short rider REVEALED!

[@UsernameKate]

I'd just like to pin this comment to stop people getting their knickers in a twist. I posted this video to show that as a 29 inch inseamer... riding a GS is possible. Of course you need to take factors into account like years of riding, confidence levels etc. I'm not saying a 4ft 11 human should go out and buy a hypermotard and that they will be completely safe. Just like I wouldn't jump on a full height GS Adventure (890/910mm height) and have it as my only bike. What I'm getting at is... a lot of people limit themselves to what bike options are available to them when the reality is they really don't have to with a bit of confidence and experience behind them. As getting both feet down at all times (when you have a bit of experience behind you) isn't a strict requirement to being able to ride a bike or dealbreaker for that matter!! Enjoy!

[@ironhorsegladiator5034]

You are absolutely, 100% correct.

[@kevinpierce7079]

Hi Kate, if you swap out the BMW seat bobbins with the Wunderlich seat bobbins (£27.00 from Nippy Normans), it drops the front of the seat by 10mm. On a low chassis 2016 triple black with the standard executive set (that comes with the bike), the Wunderlich bobbins reduces the seat height to 790mm meaning that a person with a 29" inseam should be able to flatfoot it. Keep up the great vids!

[@michaelmclarney1994]

That's good to know, thanks.

[@pshivjee108]

Great 👍 🎉 🎉 🎉 ❤

[@paulyflyer8154]

Thankyou. I've just ordered some. Just a thought though, as the nose of the seat is lower, is it noticeably pushing you towards the tank?

[@kevinpierce7079]

As you're probably aware by now, there is no noticeable difference of being pushed forward.Glad it helped.

[@inked-96]

Does this work on a standard GSA?

[@tonybarton3746]

Totally agree with your comments Kate , I’m 5 “ 7 “ and been riding 51 years now and never had a problem. The infatuation with you must be able to put 2 feet down when you stop is rubbish, never done it , just pick your best place etc ( inclines , cambers etc , now I’ve started in my seventies I get a few aches in my hips when getting on the bike but hay ho it goes away if you sit on the bike while it warms up😊😊, and won’t stop me riding . Great vlog as usual 🤪😊👍👍

[@TheLastCrankers]

I'm 5ft6in and I can't even put both feet on a yamaha mt07. But seems I can splurge on a 1200gsa

[@wandyone23]

Great video Kate. I'm 5'8" with a 29" inside leg and ride my full height Multistrada v4s. It's light as a feather when riding, but a hefty lump to move in the garage. It's a tall bike and I was a bit apprehensive before I had a test ride, but you are right, with a confident mindset and careful forward planning we short arses can enjoy the big bikes too. 👍

[@mysterybiker1717]

You forgot to mention kate, it helps if you are a badass rider like yourself! I am so impressed at how you throw those big bikes around, puts many of us bigger chaps to shame. Really good contribution / help for those vertically challenged.

[@myagoodbody7942]

Everything you say is true, I’m a good bit smaller than you, I bought the 1250 when they first came out and got rid in only a couple of months convinced it was too big for me, couple of months ago tried again,bought the lowered one and got the same mind set as you and started bossing it, now I’m loving it 😍

[@stephencritchley7169]

I bought a gsa low this year. Best bike yet! Also I am 5’10”, but with baby legs! Kate, thanks for your input and film, they are always enjoyed!

[@davidcox8961]

It's not 'kinda like a great achievement'. It is a great one. Good on you girl !!

[@iainf6]

Hi Kate very topical video 👏👏👏👏....if I was still able to ride definitely a GS would be on my shopping list . And being 7 inches taller than you I wouldn't have a problem. But you have proved that shorter riders can use the GS and enjoy your riding. So proud to be a subscriber on this channel and follow your journey. 🙏🙏🙏😎😎😎😎👏👏👏👏👏

[@muhammadedisantuso1375]

The important thing is to stay motivated. Keep on making the next video I always wish you good luck

[@bebok1234]

I am shorty 5.3 and I bought Triumph Tiger 900 GT low and I love it. And this is a short rider bike. And is make at home.

[@UsernameKate]

i LOVE that you love it Greg! Great to hear!

[@tonyvidtube]

Me too! With 30mm lowering links, Daytona Star boots and the Tiger suspension in comfort mode I am King of the road.😁

[@zameerhussain6863]

Hi Kate, I came to you to buy a RS , you made me come down knowing you didn't have a RS to test drive because you knew I needed a GS , and I bought it, best bike I have ever had , thank you, good review and keep up the good work 👏

[@seiphahmed7859]

Great video Kate, Big up to BMW for height consideration and Low chase profile but the Standard GS is Awesome

[@louiseworsfold47]

Best tip I was given for taking a heavy bike off the side stand, was to get on the bike and turn the handle bars full to the right whilst on the side stand. The bike is as light as a feather and I can literally use my left thigh to get my bike up straight. Works every time…

[@samirmatri2278]

Clearly, no one, absolutely no one can pretend to be the boss of you. Thank you so much for that all at once instructive, inspiring and fortifying video 👍👏💪✌

[@demzunoplayer]

Agree, you gotta 'own' it. Your the boss. A great delivery Kate.

[@nigelcox7477]

You’re absolutely right about needing to be the Boss of the bike. It’s great to see your confidence when on-board the GS.

[@BikermanCoUk]

Great vid Kate. As a recent convert to an early model R1200GS (2004), having been a lifelong Fj1200 and FJR1300 rider, I agree with all the main points you make. I'm now in my 60s and don't have the strength and agility of my younger days, but I can hustle the bike around with no real problems and am looking forward to putting off for many more years the dreaded day when I finally have to go from 2 wheels to a cage. Best wishes Chris

[@lozv9974]

You should be proud Kate, that is an amazing achievement. Really great advice, thank you. I’m fortunately 5ft 9 but my issue is the weight of the GS which I hope to be my next bike as hubby has one and loves it, so this has really helped. Thank you 🙏🏻

[@bradleyalexander5821]

I think you nailed it. Attitude is everything, with a bit of technique, you too can be the “boss” of these tall machines. Well spoken young Lady. 👍🏼

[@gardeningfishingjimw9364]

G'day Kate. I have just subscribed to the channel and am a fellow shortarse (5' 5 1/2") and I have a slightly different challenge apart from the height and that is I have short legs and getting one over to sit on a bike from standing on the ground is nigh near impossible; so I utilise the footpeg and get on that way. It works for me and I know I have a limited time for my passion so it's cruiser time for me. The back is shot, 2 bung knees, a crook ankle and 4 heart attacks so I gotta do it easy hence cruiser time. Still wish I could ride the sports tourers but I have to be sensible in my old age hahaha

[@BrianJohnson-bs9cw]

Grate article it just shows you just have to think out the box,I'm 5.4" like but inseam is 3" less my GS is full hight with a low seat. i have had a Ducati 1260s which i did 23k in 3 years! I have always had standard bikes over the last 40 years you just have to find what works for you and planning when you stops well done Kate

[@jameshutchins3396]

Another change in subject matter nailed! You pointed out the most important subject to master with riding period, it's all technic. Be willing to try and learn from your mistakes and most important of all, have fun! Watching this, all I could think of was a little kid riding a full size bicycle. When you see it done right, it's beautiful. I am blown away at how you keep rocking these videos. Can't wait for the next one

[@davidbrann3581]

Thanks for your confidence inspiring video. Having come off my factory lowered 1250GS a couple of times - OK - 3 times! I’ve become nervous of full lock turns at low speeds. A friend suggested dropping my arms and bringing my elbows into my body. I tried this and it made me move forward in the seat, but seemed to help. I’ll keep practicing!

[@UsernameKate]

Practice makes perfect! Don't get disheartened, I've dropped enough in my lifetime 🤣

[@dalewintle8099]

Great vlog Kate , I`m 5,7 so still a short ass but over the years you have to learn and adapt but its not impossible to ride taller bikes as you myself and many other people prove everyday , but I think it is good that major manufacturers have listened to there consumers and given us vertically challenged folk the option for lower bikes , seats etc , but at the end of the day its what people feel confident to ride , well done Kate for addressing this popular topic of debate 😁 safe riding 👍

[@arsenvokrug4198]

Great vid Kate, and very interesting, even for those of us who in theory don’t have the same problem. However, I have to admit that my GSA is the only bike in my stable that I’m just a bit scared of. At every stop, I’m considering which foot needs to go down (it can’t be both!) I know gold standard would be left down, right on brake, but the slightest unevenness, pothole, gravel and especially, steep camber, means a rethink is needed. I think it’s a great road bike but I took it off-road once - never again! I’ll use my G650GS, because I can always pick that up!

[@KingP911]

Got my ball in my throat when I came to a stop when I drove it. 🥲

[@paulyflyer8154]

At just 5'9 I was always nervous of stopping on steep cambers but I loved the bike. On my wife's suggestion I had my testicles surgically removed so I can now paddle it around the cafe car park in comfort.

[@UsernameKate]

lol!!

[@5coaly]

Great video. I love your confidence!! I agree it's all about the mindset. I came late into biking (at 52) and I have a GS1200 low chassis. For me, its perfect even tho' I'm 5'7". I have ridden a standard height one too and it was OK too but it's just the peace of mind for me to be able to flat foot it when needed. Yes , it's a heavy bike (tho not as heavy as my hubby's Tiger 1200) but it's low down weight which makes it easier to manoeuvre. When I ride a smaller bike (like the Striple or Z650), they feel tiny compared to mine and get back on my GS it's like getting in my old armchair again!! 🤣 If I ever chopped it in for something smaller/less heavy, it'll probably be something like a Z900 just for the fun factor!! 👍

[@UsernameKate]

Amazing! Loved reading your insights! Honestly TOTALLY get what you mean... I ride the comfy cloud then get on a naked bike and I feel like it's so small and it's nice to switch it up! The low down weight like you say is brilliant on the GS, can't fault it in that respect!

[@5coaly]

@@UsernameKate Thanks. I also prefer the upright position. I find my wrists ache on the bikes where I lean forward. I was really interested in a Striple but that slight lean forward didn't do it for me. I'd need bar risers. Tbh I also prefer a screen so not to be blown about by the wind!! We are all different with what works I guess.🤷‍♀️

[@andrewprice1189]

Short in stature but big in skills, experience & personality! Every Vlog makes me smile & that's basically why i became a Patreon!

[@BernardWilkinson]

I wish this vid had been around 15 year ago when I got rid of my bike. Now I'm 50 I think I'm getting a bit long in the tooth to pretty much learn from scratch again. Brilliant vid btw.

[@chema1546]

hello, good morning, Kate, I just had to lower the footrests 2 cm and changed the handlebar post and that solves everything ok 👌👍 regards

[@Bazza47]

I'm 5'7" with a 29 inside leg and am on my 3rd lowered GS. Originally I got the 1st one because SWMBO rode pillion, so being that bit closer to the ground really helped when coming to a stop. I could manage the full height demo bikes I test rode easily enough but the low one just works better for me. Coming to a stop just requires a bit of planning to decide which foot you're going to put down and if you dobthat you'll be fine. Getting on and off the bike is also easier if you put the bike's steering on full right lock as that lowers the seat and makes it far easier to lift the bike upright too. The lowered seat also has the effect of raising the bars so you sit a bit more upright which for me is a bit more comfy and it makes looking over my shoulder a bit easier too but you need to check that lowered seat doesn't make your knee angle uncomfortable. The other thing is the lowered bikes are always in demand and even though I traded both of my first 2 in during the winter both sold within a couple of weeks so dealers are always keen to take them off your hands. The other option for people to try are the Daytone M Star boors which are 25mm higher than a standard boot because of a raised insole inside the boot. The GS is perfect for shorties wanting a bike bike!

[@stevegilhooley5396]

I agree with you. Im a short arse 5.5 and ride a factory low suspension and low seat which I think makes it about 790mm. I still struggled with confidence in the first few rides and was terrified of dropping her at traffic lights/junctions etc so bought the Daytona boots. Expensive but not compared to the expense/tears in dropping the bike. They helped me over the initial getting used to her period. As Kate says you just need to plan a bit when stopping, parking etc. Beautifully balanced bike.

[@anthonyrobinson782]

I'd love a gs but I only have an inseam of 27 so it kind of puts me off getting one

[@KO-pk7df]

I'm 66 yrs old with 3 back surgeries and a 30" inseam. I have been riding since 1971. I currently ride a 2013 R1200GS Rallye. So true, everything you said. I like to say it only falls halfway over so the worst part of picking it up is already over.

[@daronsalthouse2746]

Hi Kate you may remember I bought a gs1250 rallye low chassis the problem I had was reaching the side stand especially if the road was slightly lower on the right as it extends further forwards on a low bike so I fitted one off a standard height sa there the same length just doesn't go as far forward problem solved 👍 keep up the good work .

[@davey235]

I'm a short arse (5ft 5, maybe 5ft 6 if I stood up tall and a 29 inch inside leg) and ride a KTM Adventure with a 850mm seat and ride MX bikes, as well as other borrowed ADV bikes. My bike is not heavy, around 210kg fully fuelled but I ride it daily through central London and as you say Kate, you just make it work. Us shorties have had to make it work forever. The only bike I couldn't ride from the box was a Harley Night Rod because the owner had specced forward controls. I just couldn't reach them. Great video.

[@MadGingerCat]

Awesome video Kate. Jocelin Snow is only 5'1 1/2" and she makes it work. I commented in the other vid where you spun it around on the stand too - working smarter not harder. I was never a GS fan. I tried an older version and didn't like the noticeable pitch to the side when increasing revs at low speed or talking off from a standstill. I ride a 2016 Triumph Tiger Explorer XCA which I've had from new - and love it - but it really is heavy with a full tank at slow speed. I did test ride a new GS a couple of months ago and I absolutely loved it, even though I was convinced I wouldn't. It feels considerably lighter than my Triumph because of the weight being so much further down in the frame. And you're right of course - it's about the attitude. Tell yourself you can't do something and you make it so. Tell yourself you can and it'll happen. Keep this informative and engaging content coming.

[@dptubexx]

Excellent! Well explained! In summary, it’s Mind Over Dangle! Sharing with my daughter as she’s getting into riding.

[@philcutlan]

You are an inspiration! Love all your videos, especially those with your Dad. Thanks.

[@bloodyhell451]

I went on an off road sesh in Wales and the (50 plus) Lady Guide was incredible. She couldn't get one foot down on a CRF 250 ! Every stop/start was a total one-side dismount. She made everything look easy. If you have the skills, I think anything is possible.

[@martingreen109]

Great video Kate and really helps not just on a gs but pretty much all taller bikes. Your dead right about getting the mindset right and working around things to over come any issues. BRILLIANT 👏

[@glenngardin3561]

Totally agree! I'm 5'7" with a GS as well. Took me awhile to realize "mind over matter", or "I'm the boss of this bike".

[@listert]

Thanks for the vid. I just tried a gsa which terrified me. Especially as a fell over stopping at a round about when it tilted too far over. Inspired to persevere with it.

[@arwenphoenix1]

Jocelin Snow is 5'1" and rides a full size GS and she is the boss of it! She teaches others how to get around those big bikes. She's a Legend! Just like you, Kate! ❤

[@CoolMotoRider]

You have encouraged me so much i have gained confidence in riding taller and heavier bikes. If you can do it, i shall do it too. Thanks for inspiring.

[@pistolpete6321]

Great video Kate. I’ve always had a confidence issue when riding tall adventure bikes being only 5’7”. I bought a full size GS and rode it for two years and had a few close calls almost dropping it but as you said if you think through things in advance it reduces your chances of having a mishap. The GS is incredibly nimble for such a big bike so once your moving you don’t notice the weight at all. About 18 months ago I decided to buy the low chassis XR and have to say it’s made a big difference confidence wise. I think if I were to do the GS thing over again I’d go for the low chassis just to make things a tad easier especially riding with a passenger.

[@carlosalonso9866]

I'm very interested myself in the XR (S1000). I sat on one in the showroom but found her too top-heavy for my 5 foot 6. How is the low-chassis one like? Did you test a regular height XR as well to have a comparison? Regards

[@pistolpete6321]

@@carlosalonso9866 I did try the normal height XR and didn’t feel confident coming to a stop but the low chassis XR has been fantastic. I now have 17,000 miles on it and just about to do the valve check service at 18k and have no plans to trade it in, it’s the perfect bike in my opinion.

[@georgesolomon5696]

Agree 100% I have a full height GSA and im 5'5".. No problems at all ride on and off road...

[@gsrider569]

My favorite line is (Im the boss of this bike) Just love it. Great video!!

[@125ZJK]

tbh I've been 6ft since the age of 15. I honestly never thought about the weight or seat height of any big bike....Learning to ride was the problem as from the cbt stage everything was too small ! Great video though. Perspective is always a good thing.

[@cissysprinkle8005]

great video. just brought one. Even being a 5.10 bloke still found this educational and encouraging.

[@nigeltankard6977]

A good review on how to handle a taller bike. You give anyone who maybe shorter the confidence to try out a taller bike

[@IngramCars]

There's me as a new rider worried about the size and weight of my Honda VFR 800.. This video is very useful and informative, and I am now the boss of my bike, which I'm looking forward to riding very soon.

[@barrypearson8262]

Hi Kate, nice video and your right it's all in the head. I dropped my sons Honda having forgotten the side stand was up....DOHhh. Even though it was only around 190K being a 9stone weakling I couldn't straight lift it so resorted to KZbin where a very small Indian fella lifted a GSA using the same technique as your video link. So thinking if he can do it so can I, Eureka up she came, brain over braun. Stay safe and keep the vids coming.

[@davidreed6817]

Great video, not only are you shorter than most GS riders but you are better than them! Username Dad has taught you well, I'm a fellow shorty at 5'6" so I wear Daytona M-Star boots with built up in soles then I can flat foot (with one foot) my zzr14, I remember your recent vlog on the Bugly sorry Busa, you had no trouble throwing that big girl about (positive mental attitude) Joseline Snow at 5' 2" is another great you tuber to watch. Really enjoyed that.

[@michaelrandle4128]

Thanks for that, I have the same problem with my gtr1400, I saw a bloke at Matlock with an old Suzuki gt750 kettle, he had boots with a two inch sole, he said it worked fine for him, if you don’t mind the glam rock look.

[@UsernameKate]

I can picture it now!!

[@rumblin_cynth_rampo374]

Hi Kate thanks ever so much for this, Like you Im a short arse a 5foot 6 29 inch in seam, 65 year old female. Im waiting to take delivery of a Guzzi V100. I had a test ride on one recently and I had a right panic when I found the seat height was at my limit comfort then I remembered this video. If you can do it so can I. It not like its my first big bike I had a Benelli 1130 Trek for 7 years, I mastered that. keep up the fab work.

[@listert]

Thanks

[@UsernameKate]

Thank you Tom! 😁

[@Paalhauk80]

And just like that, someone who said "i can not" will go and try. Nice one! I had a lowered 1200. But i think the next one will be full height. Try the touratech low seat and one of these offset front height thingies for the seat. Main pro? You can enjoy the suspension in auto mode.

[@mikedignum1868]

I have to agree, I have a 2019 GS Exclusive (standard height) with a comfort seat and I have a 29" inside leg. I found three things that helped me...changed the rubber bungs under the seat to lower it by about 5mm...Keep it on the lower suspension setting and have a decent pair of boots that have a thick sole. The rest is all down to confidence on the bike and that comes from use. I've had mine up mountain roads in Norway/Spain/Italy and Croatia.

[@alanjohn6355]

Awesome vid, so glad to see you riding the full height. I'm 6'2" so can get both feet on the floor, but have to say that stepping of my 1100LT and onto the GS, I had doubts instantly, its bloody huge, so can understand shorter riders thinking nope, cant ride that. Keep up the great vids, and I hope this has encouraged more riders to look twice now.

[@JoaquinChea]

Great video Kate, I just came upon your channel. I too ride a R1250GS and I’m also 5’ 4” tall with a 29 inch inseam, I’ll admit when I first sat on the GS at the dealership I was a bit intimidated because I could only hold the bike up on my tip toes. After three years of riding it I’m glad I bought it. I ride solo frequently and I have been able to pick up the bike the few times I dropped it in dirt, like you said it’s in the technique.

[@richarddepledge960]

Hi Kate, Hope your ok. ive just re watched this clip re short riders. I paid for my T black this morning. but it was not ready for delivery. Im champing at the bit to get it and on it. Cannot wait. Your vid really helped.

[@gadget02]

Thanks for all that very informative information you have me thinking again about one. 😮

[@dongraham1559]

Well done Kate! I'm also vertically challenge, 5'4", but only 27" inseam. Not sure what went wrong with my build! I love my GS, granted it is the factory low version. I did drop it once, in a car park, but with engine bars fitted there was no damage, and I was quite suprised I could pick it up unaided. I used the "put your back towards the bike" technique which worked really well. Just returned from 2 weeks in Spain with my "tractor" and it was amazing!! You def do not have to be tall to ride a GS!

[@AbhishekBM]

Is 27 inch your true inseam or pant size inseam. Asking because I'm also 5'4"

[@dongraham1559]

I’m actually 27” leg in bare feet, crotch to floor. Trouser length a bit less. Try and find a factory low normal GS, not an Adventure. Think you will find it ok!

[@NorthernBiker-t9h]

@@dongraham1559 I am just a tad under 27" in bare feet and bought the GSA because the factory lowered is lower than the GS. Changed the seat bobbins and fitted an ultra low seat and its great.

[@dongraham1559]

@@NorthernBiker-t9h Good to know! 👍I’ve also done the bobbin mod with the low seat it came with, which helps. What “extra” low seat did you get and is it comfy? An extra little bit of lowering always helps! With name of Northern Biker where you from? I’m Carlisle. 👍

[@NorthernBiker-t9h]

@@dongraham1559 Just outside of Newcastle-I get over to Carlisle though as my IAM Masters tutor is based there. I bought the Touratech Comfort seat Fresh Touch X low. I use it with a cool cover-its not cheap though -£357, but worth it for me as it gives me that little bit extra confidence. I leave the bike in "low" too unless parking on a camber.

[@EmeraldExplorer1200]

Love your attitude towards it, you certainly are confident on the GS and dont let the fact that it is a big bike affect you at all. I'm fortunate enough that I'm 6'5 so seat height really doesn't affect me too much unless it's a really low bike. But for me, the higher the better.

[@michaeltkapele5031]

I am 5'4. I ride these bikes without fear. I learned techniques: how you stop( always put a right foot on the brake pedal, , and the left foot on the floor) how you park, how you turn, hiw you make a u turn.etc... I even handle the bike better than those that are taller.

[@yorkshireR9T]

I've got my heart set on a GS after Xmas. I've just got some daytona boots in preparation. Added 2 inches to my 32 in seam. Cheaper than a low seat and surprisingly comfortable.

[@tileproplus]

That tiny litttle woman next to Ruby when she is picking up the GS at the bike show is called Jenny Huntly. She is one of the offroad school instructors and a fantastic rider, instructor and a lovely person. She rides a GSA with great poise and precision and can hardly see over the seat without standing on her tippy toes never mind getting a foot down, amazing!

[@UsernameKate]

I know, I have an offroad jersey that says 'be more jenny' LOL sometimes, you just have to Jenny a situation (or at least be happy with being 1/4 as graceful!)

[@grhmnz4648]

Great video Kate that will inspire more short riders to try a GS .I luckily found a 2013 low chassis GS with a low seat . It's true, that compared to you, I'm a weed, as I had 5mm added onto the soles of my Sidi boots. As I'm 5'6 the bike is great for my confidence,at age 63. .

[@27jollytall]

I am 6ft 3" so the height has never been an issue, but at 70plus years the weight is something to consider, but as you say, the weight is so well distributed on the GS, that it feels lighter and easier to ride than many bikes of less pounds on paper.

[@MyTube_4U]

Great video, Kate , thanks & take care🤞😊🤞👍

[@cliveadams7629]

I'm not tall, can just about get both toes down on my GS bit have to climb on via the footpeg rather than just swing a leg over. I'm not as young as I used to be so pushing it uphill is just a a no-no so I make sure I never have to. I didn't think I'd keep it long as it's so big & heavy compared to my CBR600RR but I love the thing. You should be planning your ride anyway so planning a way in to park front out making sure the back is downhill or getting off to push it in is a no brainer. I'm amazed at how nimble it is once it's rolling and so long as I stop properly, ie planned and ready to put a foot down, then there's never a problem. Sure, it's caught me out a couple of times and I've had to pick it up but, as you so wisely say, technique makes up for a lack of size & muscle.

[@lovegar]

You've done well handling that GS. Parking & initial set off are the pinch points & worse on slopes & uneven ground Not being able to place two feet on the ground or at least balls of feet will always be a risk. At the end of the day if you feel happy with it then all well & good, a lot wouldn't have the confidence to deal with the daily risks

[@HJM1974]

I love my low chassis 2022 triple black GS 😍

[@keithmckendrick1722]

OK...thanks UNK that was useful...thinking of going for a Touratech Ultra low on a full height bike...I figure I would deffo cope when solo with a standard seat but with the missus on it...even though she is about your size and weighs 7 stone wet through...then that would be a problem...but glad you are bossing it....oh...and I almost shut my eyes at the red van point...ffs....did you breath in?...ride safe kid....🤘🏍

[@snailsalad]

Would recommend putting your left down Kate. So you have positive control of the right brake with the right foot. Easier for low speed traffic riding to be able to drag the rear brake and put your left foot down. Cheers!

[@michaelstanton909]

Excellent video - really hit home as I’m also a ‘shortie’ … and am often as discriminated against as any women riding a GS, even though I’m a male. Two of the greatest (or most meaningful) compliments I’ve ever received were from my Dad watching me ride around, and the instructor at the BMW off-road academy I was on course with - it seems that ANY shortie that can master a GS is cause for astonishment! Great video!

[@ChrisSmart1]

Nice vlog again shorty er i mean Kate :) you should be proud of mastering the bike it's no mean feat, kudos to you hun.

[@UsernameKate]

Thanks Chris!! :)

[@MEKIT-b4w]

really a respect for this GS ride!

[@PetrolJunkie]

5'6, 30inch inseam, I ride a full-height GSA. There are all sorts of fun ways you can mitigate the height situation. The only place where you have to put two feet down is in the MSF course to learn how to duckwalk.

[@janjanssen6794]

Thank you, this gave me a little more confidence for for concidering a GS as a "shortass" haha

[@Rockout52]

Hi Kate, I've been wanting a GSA for a very long time, I literally just got mine and have only ridden it twice so far, I have the seat on the lower setting and suspension set on low, I'm 6 foot and still only just touch the ground on the balls of my feet, with the suspension in auto I'm literally on tip toes. It's sheer size is intimidating when you first stand next to it, but it's all about getting your confidence and learning some new techniques for man handling it, I've yet to master reversing it up over the ramped pavement, over the apex then onto my drive which drops steeply towards the garage, it was a big enough challenge with my sports bike half the weight of the GSA, it's early days but I will get there.

[@rossalisdair3208]

Great video @usernamekate. Have you done or will you do a technique video on managing the GS, picking up a dropped bike etc.

[@UsernameKate]

I'll have to see if someone will let me drop their bike for that 🤣 maybe if I manage to do another offroad skills day, I'll try and record something 😊

[@headrace4863]

GS is really well weighted, for a heavy and tall bike. One of the real big guns in its already strong arsenal. Shame my Crosstourer at 295kg feels about the same as the QE2, and about as tall as the Statue of Liberty, veeeeery top heavy due to the V4. Feels heavier than a Goldwing to move around. I’m 6’1” and about 90k and it’s no more than manageable for me. Good vid, Kate. Useful info. 👍

[@UsernameKate]

Thanks HeadRace :) and QE2 LOL can just imagine!!

[@2wheelsrbest327]

You are so right. Traded in a GS for a DCT CT and it was so heavy to put on the centre stand I would get my wife to help me. After a few times of doing that, she suggested I get another bike. Now how often do you hear that from your partner. Just happy to be back on another GS.

[@UsernameKate]

@@2wheelsrbest327 she's a keeper!!

[@paulcummings8611]

Good for you, positive mental attitude.👍

[@UsernameKate]

Always try for one! haha

[@malcmaries7615]

Same as you 5ft 4, got a 1250 gs with low frame the problem with that is side stand. You have to watch where you park and get a level piece of tarmac as the side stand if the ground is high you can not get the side stand down. Can be a pain some times

[@mikekearsley2407]

Fantastic vid!!!!! Like your positive i can do attitude. Thanks from Seattle.

[@ralphsmotodiary]

Useful video, Kate, thank you. I did really want a GS after I passed my test but felt they were a bit too tall, and I didn't feel confident on them as I couldn't flat foot the bike. I'm about average at 5'10", so in the end I went for the R model, same DNA, different package. For now I'm happy, if I ever need to buy a bike again I think I'd probably be a bit more confident on a GS and would certainly take a look. Oh yeah, and PS, hope to see you at MCL this Saturday! :D

[@pjhammer78]

One question you haven’t covered. How do you cope with your tall bike when you find yourself on a wet and very slippery surface like wet cobblestones or diesel spills etc.?

[@mancavemoto]

Nice vid Kate, I’ve not spent enough time on a GS which is something i need to rectify!

[@markkorad5151]

I have a 2010 R1200GS. I'm a bit short in the leg, but find riding no problem. My main issue is getting the thing off the side stand! the 2010 stand, for some reason, leans the bike over by about 5 degrees more than, say, a 2013. It makes a difference! Thanks for doing the video though. Its all in the mind!

[@rautierautenbach8485]

I'm 63 and also a shortass, mind you guess 2 inches or so taller than you. The 1200 GS is my dream bike but I've been doubting my ability to ride it. Then again, I ride a KLR 650 which is also 850mm tall. I was worried about the extra weight but is seems the GS is well balanced. Thanks for giving me confidence and all of the best for 2023 from South Africa. 🙏🏻👍🏻👌🏻😉

[@GLomax]

It's quite comforting to hear that even you get off the bike and physically move it, I'm the same - my bike isn't heavy by any means but it is tall. My drive-way is really steep and I physically dont have the strength to push it up, the concrete strips are less than a meter wide but i've gotten to the point where I can confidently ride up. Before I was feathering the clutch and walking alongside, but i've found its easier just to yolo it up the ramp whilst sat on it XD. As for Uturns Im fairly confindent, but if the ground is dodgey I dont risk it, just get off and push it. I once did a uturn and my front wheel fell into a pot hole, as i said I'm lucky the bike isn't heavy so I managed to push it back up before it fully fell over, but I certainly wouldn't be doing slow manouvers where the road is bad XD

[@xuwang2217]

make sure if you drop the big bike, you can lift it! meaning any place , and where!

[@GadgetMart]

The BMW GS is a great bike for sure. The thing is however there are plenty of other smaller great bikes out there.

[@UsernameKate]

Oh yea for sure! I just personally think the GS nails it from a comfort perspective - like you're riding a cloud lol

[@GadgetMart]

@@UsernameKate That’s the long suspension travel, I agree like a magic carpet. I’m tall and I regret not being able to ride smaller bikes - the 1970s 1980s classic jap bikes mainly. I’ve dropped my GS more than once I might add.

[@tonypyatt6556]

I would love to see your friend ruby ride’s pick it when she is in here 60s I have just down sized for that same reason a great video though keep up the good work

[@etiennelabeille]

Kate, great video. Can you put the bike on the centre stand?

[@arnoldtm31]

I'm 5ft 6 with a 29 inch inseam. I can ride any bike with an 850mm seat height. My last bike was a 21 1290 SAS. The one before that was a 2018 v strom 1000. GS is easier to handle than both of those bikes, I have test rode one. I'm currently on a 22 s1000rr but my next and probably last bike will be a GS.

[@mikep.9371]

That was a tall video ya made Kate. Hope you had a good weekend and got some "swing it around" curves in too.

[@SarahDoesMoto]

Definitely all about technique. My touring bike weighs in at 775 lbs and basically you have to show it who is the boss! Good topic 😎

[@RobAKemp]

Fab video Kate. Great content and tips. Go girl! 😊 I really miss my 2018 GSA Ralle TE. One of the best bikes I’ve ever owned. It just took everything in its stride. 😢

[@BlackThor15]

What an awesome video Kate, truly inspiring and motivating for so many out there looking to buy a GS one day, like me. Well done and thank you for sharing it! 👍👍